That was beautiful. :]

What a stunning metaphor. This is so cleverly thought out, particularly the part about each of us carrying baggage. A simply beautiful story, I really enjoyed it! The one thing I would say is that there was momentary happiness in the dessert, but it dissolves...not everything in life is so bad. If we allow ourselves to enjoy it.

Rachel,
while I know we have very different spiritual beliefs, I have to say that this piece is not only well-written, but the metaphors and allegory in it are exquisitely crafted. Eloquent, mature, and masterful.